Households issued warning over going outside from May

Households across the UK have been issued a warning over going outside from May due to an increase in ticks.

Late spring through early summer is the highest-risk period for tick bites, as ticks are most active when the weather is warm. They are most commonly found in woodland, moorland and grassy areas, and can carry infections including Lyme disease and, more rarely, tick-borne encephalitis. While ticks can be active all year round, they are most active between now and July, and with May being National Lyme Disease Awareness Month, when most of the UK is entering peak tick season, it’s important to be aware of where ticks can be found and the symptoms caused by a tick bite.

Most ticks live in grassy and woodland areas, so you’re more at risk of being bitten if you do activities like hiking, cycling or camping, but you can also be exposed to them on walks in some urban parks and gardens.

High-risk areas include The Lake District, New Forest, South Downs, Scottish Highlands, and Richmond Park and Epping Forest in London, so anyone spending time outdoors in these areas, among others, can be at risk.

Lyme Disease is an infection that can be transmitted by ticks found in the UK, although not all ticks carry the bacteria which causes the disease and not all bites from an infected tick will result in human infection.

The disease can be acquired if you’re bitten by an infected tick, usually outdoors in green spaces where ticks might be present, and if not caught early, it can lead to flu-like symptoms such as a high temperature, or feeling hot, cold or shivery, headaches, muscle and joint pain and tiredness.

Some people can also develop more severe symptoms months or years later including nerve problems, like pain or numbness, heart problems, or trouble with memory or concentration.

Bite prevention expert and CEO of incognito insect repellent products, Howard Carter, said: “Ticks may be incredibly tiny, but their bite can have a big impact.

“Make May your reminder to stay informed and stay protected. If you are bitten, it is important to remove the tick promptly. Unless you know what you’re doing, only remove ticks using a special tick remover tool. Tweezers don’t work as well – you have to be careful taking a tick out as they can break, leaving parts still inside the body.

“Remove gently and hold it so that it is vertically above your skin. The chance of contracting Lyme Disease is far less if you successfully remove the tick without squashing its innards into your body. Clean the area with antiseptic or soap and water.

“Monitor for symptoms over the next few weeks. Contact your GP if you feel unwell or notice a rash.”

The most effective way to avoid Lyme Disease is to prevent tick bites in the first place, so experts recommend covering your arms and legs when walking outdoors, particularly in grassy or wooded areas, and stick to clear paths where possible.

It’s also recommended that you use insect repellent on your clothes and skin, and wear light-coloured clothing so ticks are easier to see and brush off.

In its advice on being ‘tick aware’, the UK Health Security Agency said: “Looking out for symptoms of Lyme disease and checking yourself for ticks after you go to green spaces where they may be present is very important. Prompt correct tick removal can reduce your chances of acquiring Lyme disease.

“Early symptoms typically develop around 1 to 4 weeks after being bitten, however, they can appear anything between 3 to 30 days after exposure to an infected tick. Rapid recognition of symptoms can ensure that you receive the earliest diagnosis and treatment from your GP.”